Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu Celebrated with Grandeur in Bengaluru by The United Council for Education and Culture (UCEC) and Mahfil-e-Nisa
Mr. Naseer Ahmed MLC and Political Secretary to the Chief Minister of Karnataka flagging off the rally of ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu along with Dr. Shaista Yusuf and others at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium, Bengaluru.
Dated 8th February 2025
News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid
Editor in Chief
Bengaluru | The United Council for Education and Culture (UCEC) and Mahfil-e-Nisa jointly organized ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’ (Urdu Day) to honor the rich cultural and literary heritage of the Urdu language. The grand event took place on 8th February 2025 at Koramangala Indoor Stadium, Bengaluru.
The program was presided over by Dr. Shaista Yusuf, Managing Trustee of UCEC and President of Mahfil-e-Nisa. The event was inaugurated by Mr. Naseer Ahmed, MLC & Political Secretary to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, along with Dr. Shaista Yusuf, Iqbal Ahmed Baig, Syed Aslam Pasha, Syed Abrar and the trustees of Mahfil-e-Nisa. The program was anchored by Dr. Sabiha Zubair, a well-known professor, scriptwriter and Urdu poet.
A key highlight of the celebration was a spectacular aerobics performance and the formation of an India Map by students, symbolizing India’s unity in diversity. Additionally, a children’s rally was organized from the stadium, passing through National Games Village (NGV) and key landmarks like the GST Office and Passport Office, before returning to the venue.
The event saw the presence of distinguished guests, including Prof. Alok Rai, Dr. Ajay Kumar Singh, Ejaz Ali Johri, Dr. Azra Naqvi and many others. Mr. Iqbal Ahmed Baig, Trustee of UCEC, warmly welcomed all the dignitaries and attendees.
Mr. Naseer Ahmed Praises Efforts to Promote Urdu Language at ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’
Despite his busy schedule, Mr. Naseer Ahmed, MLC & Political Secretary to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, made time to attend and inaugurate ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’. He was engaged in a budget review meeting, yet he prioritized being part of the celebration, recognizing the significance of the event.
While addressing the audience, he expressed his happiness and appreciation for the organizers and participants. He said, “Today is a day of great joy. Seeing so many school children gathered here makes it feel like an international event. Just as major sports events take place in stadiums, you have organized this grand celebration for Urdu here.”
He further acknowledged the dedication of the organizers, saying, “For the past 12 years, I have seen your continuous efforts in promoting the Urdu language. You all dedicate your valuable time to its growth and development. It gives me immense happiness to witness this commitment. I congratulate all of you for your significant contribution to the progress of Urdu.”
His words inspired the attendees and reinforced the importance of preserving and promoting the Urdu language for future generations.
Educational initiatives like ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’ play a crucial role in inspiring students to embrace and appreciate the beauty of the Urdu language, ensuring its legacy continues for generations to come.
Special Awards Presented to Honor Contributions to Urdu Language and Culture
As part of ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’, special awards were presented to recognize personalities who have contributed to the Urdu language and culture :
URDU DOST AWARD :- The five member study group constituted by Anjuman-e-Taraqque Urdu for studying the state of education through Urdu medium will be conferred with this award. The group comprises of the following members :
Mr. Azeezullah Baig, Mr. Adoni Syed Saleem, Mr. Mohd Salahuddin, Mr. Meer Anees Ahmed (All retired IAS Officers) and Mr. M. A. Khalid (Retired KAS Officer).
Mr. Azeezullah Baig, retired IAS officer receiving the URDU DOST AWARD.
Mr. Adoni Syed Saleem, retired IAS officer receiving the URDU DOST AWARD.
Mr. Mohammad Salahuddin, retired IAS officer receiving the URDU DOST AWARD.
Mr. Meer Anees Ahmed, retired IAS officer receiving the URDU DOST AWARD.
Mr. M. A. Khalid, retired KAS Officer receiving the URDU DOST AWARD.
MUMTAZ SHIREEN AWARD – Mr. Mohammed Ayazuddin Patel (Gulbarga) – National Award-Winning Artist, Lalit Kala Academy, Government of India.
MAHMOOD AYAZ AWARD – Mr. Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui – Chairman, Quiz Time; Editor and Poet, Mumbai.
UROOJ-E-NISA AWARD – Mrs. Shaista Naaz – Shaheen College, Bidar. In her absence, the award was presented to Janab Khurshid Sahab.
In addition to honoring distinguished personalities, Mehfil-e-Nisa also celebrated the achievements of young students by presenting them with the ‘Sitaron Ki Khoj’ award. This award was given to talented students from various schools and colleges who have excelled in Urdu literature, poetry, and academic studies. The initiative aims to encourage and inspire the younger generation to develop a deeper love for Urdu and actively contribute to its progress.
The recognition of these individuals and students served as a motivation for others to embrace the Urdu language and uphold its literary and cultural legacy. The awards ceremony was a proud moment for the recipients, their families, and the entire Urdu-speaking community, highlighting the continued efforts to nurture and promote the language.
Dr. Shaista Yusuf Highlights Efforts to Promote Urdu at ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’
Bangalore: Dr. Shaista Yusuf, Managing Trustee of UCEC and President of Mahfil-e-Nisa, addressed the gathering at ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’ and emphasized the collective efforts needed to promote the Urdu language. She highlighted that various small organizations, including teachers’ associations from Bidar, Gulbarga, Chikkodi and other rural parts of Karnataka, had come together for the event.
“This evening, we have brought together representatives of these associations to share their work for the promotion of Urdu. Based on their inputs and suggestions, my team will work throughout the year to strengthen Urdu education until the next Yaum-e-Urdu,” she said. She also mentioned that resolving issues related to online Urdu classes and improving Urdu education in schools would be key focus areas for the coming year.
Dr. Shaista Yusuf thanked all the friends and well-wishers who sponsored the Yaum-e-Urdu event, especially Mr. Umar Ismail Khan, Chairman of Al-Ameen Institutions, Mrs. Iffath Fathima of IDENTITI and Dr. Abdullah Saleem, IPS.
Dr. Shaista Yusuf expressed her gratitude to all the guests for accepting the invitation and participating in this celebration of Urdu in Bengaluru.
Mr. Iqbal Ahmed Baig Extends a Warm Welcome at ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’
Mr. Iqbal Ahmed Baig, Trustee of UCEC, extended a heartfelt welcome to all the esteemed dignitaries, guests and attendees at the ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’ event. He expressed his gratitude to everyone for their presence and participation in the celebration of the Urdu language and culture. In his welcome address, he emphasized the importance of such gatherings in fostering unity among Urdu enthusiasts and promoting the language’s rich literary heritage.
Mr. Baig acknowledged the contributions of various scholars, educators, and community leaders who have been tirelessly working for the upliftment of Urdu. He encouraged all attendees to actively engage in discussions and share their valuable insights to further strengthen the movement for Urdu’s preservation and growth. His warm words set the tone for an inspiring and meaningful event dedicated to the love of the Urdu language.
Prof. Alok Rai Praises Bengaluru’s Grand Celebration of Urdu Language
Addressing the gathering at ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’, Prof. Alok Rai, grandson of legendary writer Munshi Premchand, expressed his admiration for the event and the enthusiasm of the audience.
He shared his deep connection with Urdu, saying, “I have come from Uttar Pradesh, and we take pride in the fact that Urdu was born on our land. It belongs to Awadh. Prof. Rai congratulated the organizers and the participants for their dedication to the language. He added, “Seeing your passion and energy fills me with hope. Despite the long-standing tradition of lamenting Urdu’s decline, this event proves that Urdu is not just alive but thriving. And here, in this very place, new custodians of the language are being nurtured.”
His words resonated with the audience, reinforcing the significance of promoting and preserving ‘Urdu’s literary and cultural heritage’ for future generations.
Dr. Azra Naqvi Praises Mehfil-e-Nisa and Students’ Enthusiasm for Urdu
Renowned poet, writer, and translator Dr. Azra Naqvi from Delhi addressed the gathering at ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’ and expressed her admiration for ‘Mehfil-e-Nisa’ and the dedication of its team.
She said, “Mehfil-e-Nisa has accomplished something truly remarkable, setting an example of ‘Naari Shakti’ (women’s empowerment). The way these women have worked with such organization and dedication is truly inspiring. They have immersed themselves completely in this noble cause.”
Dr. Naqvi also praised the students’ performances, calling them “extraordinary and unforgettable.” She encouraged the young participants, saying, “Children, this moment will be a memorable one in your lives. Today, we have not just observed Urdu Day; we have truly celebrated it like a grand festival.”
She concluded by congratulating Mehfil-e-Nisa for organizing such a wonderful event and for their continuous efforts in promoting the Urdu language and culture.
Dr. Ajay Kumar Singh Emphasizes Urdu’s Role in Indian Culture
While addressing the gathering at ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’, Dr. Ajay Kumar Singh, IPS (Former Director General of Police, Bengaluru), praised the efforts of students who participated in the event.
He said, “I would like to especially appreciate the students who performed today. Their talent and enthusiasm made this event even more special. I congratulate everyone for organizing this wonderful celebration of Urdu.”
Sharing his personal connection with literature, he mentioned, “I grew up reading Munshi Premchand in Hindi, and his works had a great influence on me. However, after moving from Uttar Pradesh to Karnataka, I always felt that Urdu has played a significant role in shaping India’s cultural heritage. Without Urdu, one cannot even imagine classical Indian culture.”
Dr. Singh stressed that Urdu is not just a language of any one community but an integral part of India’s diverse linguistic and cultural identity. He urged everyone to remember this, saying, “Urdu is one of the finest languages of India. It belongs to all, and we must never consider it the language of just one section of society. Every citizen of India should cherish and promote Urdu.”
He concluded by congratulating the organizers for successfully hosting such a meaningful event that highlights the rich legacy and contribution of Urdu to Indian culture.
Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui Honored with Mahmood Ayaz Award at Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu
Renowned Chairman of Quiz Time, Editor, and Poet from Mumbai, Hamid Iqbal Siddiqui, was honored with the ‘Mahmood Ayaz Award’ at the ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’ event. While addressing the gathering, he expressed his deep gratitude and joy.
“This is an extremely proud moment for me, and perhaps the first time in my life that I have received such immense appreciation. I have made a small contribution out of my love for Urdu, a language that connects hearts and strengthens relationships. Urdu was born on this very land of Bharat, and as a lifelong student of this beautiful language, I wish that we all embrace and preserve its rich cultural heritage.”
He thanked both United Council for Education and Culture & Mehfil-e-Nisa for recognizing his work and bestowing this prestigious award upon him. He also praised the students, saying, “Their performances were so mesmerizing that I felt as if I were in a dream.”
Concluding his speech, he congratulated everyone for organizing such a grand ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’ and for their continuous efforts in celebrating and promoting the Urdu language.
Ejaz Ali Johri Announces New Initiative for Urdu Development
Addressing the gathering at ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’, Ejaz Ali Johri, Chairman of ‘Hindustani Urdu Manch’, expressed his deep appreciation for ‘Mehfil-e-Nisa’ and its continued efforts in promoting the Urdu language.
He said, “For the past 12 years, we have been associated with Mehfil-e-Nisa, and I must say that the dedicated work being done by the women of Bengaluru is truly commendable. They have been honoring others with awards, but today, I believe they too deserve to be recognized for their contributions.”
Ejaz Ali Johri also announced an important initiative for the preservation and growth of Urdu. He shared, “To support the progress and survival of the Urdu language, we are establishing a new trust called ‘Hindustani Urdu Manch.’ This trust will focus on promoting Urdu culture, literature and heritage, as well as improving the conditions of Urdu schools and ensuring their survival.”
He emphasized the need for collective responsibility, stating, “We all must come together to adopt Urdu schools and work towards their betterment. Our trust, ‘Hindustani Urdu Manch’, will always extend its support in this mission.”
He concluded by praising Dr. Shaista Yusuf and her team for organizing such a remarkable event, which reflects their unwavering commitment to the Urdu language and its rich cultural heritage.
The ‘Jashn-e-Yaum-e-Urdu’ was a memorable celebration, filled with inspiring speeches, outstanding student performances, and heartfelt recognition of those dedicated to the Urdu language. The event beautifully highlighted Urdu’s rich heritage and its role in uniting cultures. Event organized by Dr. B R Abdul Wajid of CHANNEL PRISM, the program received immense appreciation from dignitaries, poets and scholars. The overwhelming participation and enthusiasm showcased the deep love and commitment towards Urdu, ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive for generations to come.
